Book summary

From a noted Australian writer, this novel, set in a Tasmanian prison colony in the early 20th century, is about a former thief (based on an actual character) who is set the task of illustrating a book of fish. (His illustrations are reproduced in the novel.) He also reminisces about his wild past, which included a stay in Louisiana with John Keats's brother, and the crossing of paths with the notorious Australian outlaw, Ned Kelly. A New York Times Notable Book for 2002.

Media reviews

"A whiff of magical realism and a generous abundance of expressionistic hyperbole create the uniquely suprareal texture of this wonderful third novel....Fascinating work, and very much Flanagan's best yet."